FACES Issue #1: Tilo Wiedensohler

How long have you been involved?

Thilo Wiedensohler: “I think I've been a contractor/photographer for the Berlin Marathon since 1996; 30 years – not bad...”

Do you have a favorite event? If so, why exactly this one...

Thilo Wiedensohler: “Difficult question! The most challenging and therefore somehow also the “most exciting” race from a photographic point of view is the adidas Runners City Night. The BMW BERLIN-MARATHON is the most emotional race and therefore a favorite on a different level. The SwimRun Rheinsberg is also really good, even if it is quite (physically) demanding.”

Do you have a favorite place at one of the events?....your favorite photo position?...Why?

Thilo Wiedensohler: "From an “I'm an important photographer” point of view, it's the finish line of the BMW BERLIN MARATHON, lying on the ground, one of eight. Working for the organizer, that means quite a bit of responsibility (especially with a world record).

Otherwise: when the participants come out of the water at the SwimRun in Rheinsberg. When the sun is shining, these are great motifs with overhanging branches and backlighting."

Which special moment is the most beautiful for you? Why?

Thilo Wiedensohler: “Two options: 1. The finish line “of the masses” at the marathon. The emotions of the runners are sometimes quite extreme (positive) and 2. the Reichstag lawn after the marathon in good weather. So many happy people in one place...”

Who would you give a medal to at the finish line? ...if that person exists, ...it can also be someone funny or curious.

Tilo Wiedensohler: “Actually, “fun runs” are a deeply social construct, which is why I don't want to pick any one person, because the volunteer at the refreshment station may be partly responsible for ensuring that the doctors or medical assistants (who immediately spring to mind when you ask a question like this) don't have to do their “job” at all...”